Choosing children’s clothing and toys: practical buying tips for babies and children

Buying a new outfit or toy seems straightforward, until you discover that the size is wrong, parts are easily lost or a product is less practical than the product photo suggests. When choosing children’s clothing and toys, parents, grandparents and carers should therefore focus on specific features rather than eye-catching marketing copy.

Three common pitfalls are:

• Using age as the only guide: an age recommendation does not always provide enough information about body length or fit.
• Attractive extras with little everyday value: lights and sounds can be appealing, but they may make toys reliant on batteries or less suitable for calm play.
• Not considering how the product will be used: a double pushchair, dressing-up toy or children’s clothing may seem perfectly suitable at home, but prove awkward when travelling, at school or during children’s activities.

By checking the details in advance, you can reduce the risk of a disappointing purchase and choose more carefully from baby clothing, girls’ clothing, boys’ clothing and toys for children up to around 10 years old.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Size, age and freedom of movement

For baby bodysuits and baby sets, the size in centimetres is a useful first check. According to the product information, a size 068 bodysuit is intended for a height of around 68 cm and an age indication of 9 months. This is only a guideline, so also check the fit, fastening and amount of room for movement.

For older children, pay attention to:

• body length alongside the stated size;
• elasticated trims that do not dig in;
• enough room around the knees and shoulders;
• a fastening that is easy to reach when changing or dressing.

A girls’ skirt or dress may look lovely, but it is less practical if the child cannot run, bend down or use the toilet independently with ease. The same applies to boys’ clothing: as well as the colour and style, consider how flexible the fabric is.

2. Material and care

Much of the Chicco baby clothing in this selection is made from 95% cotton and 5% elastane. This is easy to verify and indicates that the fabric has some stretch. According to the product information, the Chicco dungaree skirt is made from 80% cotton, 16% polyester and 4% elastane.

Before buying, check:

• the exact material composition;
• the washing and care instructions;
• whether the fabric is suitable for everyday use;
• whether buttons, poppers and decorative details are securely attached.

Always follow the care label. A product description may refer to easy care, but the actual care instructions on the garment take priority. With baby clothing, buying several items can sometimes be more practical than choosing one eye-catching garment, as baby bodysuits and baby sets often need changing.

3. Toy age limits, parts and dimensions

For toys intended for children aged 3 and over, first check the recommended minimum age and any warnings. The KidKraft dinosaur toy contains four parts and, according to the product information, is intended for children aged 3 and over. The set contains small figures, so bear this in mind when supervising younger children.

Also consider:

• the number of parts;
• dimensions and weight;
• batteries or another power source;
• whether assembly is required;
• storage after play;
• whether a CE mark is included when this is stated in the product information.

According to the description, the princess castle toy with music and lights uses three AG13 button-cell batteries. The product is not suitable for children under 3 because it contains small parts. Before buying, check whether the child can play with the set independently and whether the sound and lights are suitable for your home environment.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Chicco 09005597000000 GIRLS WHITE 068

Why it suits this profile: A simple everyday garment in size 068, with short sleeves and a composition of 95% cotton and 5% elastane.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size, age indication, colour and material composition are clearly stated. However, check the child’s height and the care label before buying.

Key benefit & highlights

Short sleeves; 95% cotton and 5% elastane; size 068 with age indication 68–09M.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality

Chicco 09075764000000 GIRLS DARK BLUE 122

Why it suits this profile: A two-piece baby set for anyone looking for a ready-to-wear outfit for a child who wears size 122.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The set includes a T-shirt and shorts, so you do not have to combine two garments with different fits yourself.

Key benefit & highlights

Two-piece set; 95% cotton and 5% elastane; navy colour; size 122.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users

Handcart Children Twin Mode

Why it suits this profile: Designed for families who need to transport two children at once on trips out, while shopping or on longer walks.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states that it has two seats, a 5-point harness for each seat and a maximum total weight of 40 kg. Check the locking mechanism before use.

Key benefit & highlights

Two seats; adjustable seating positions; 5-point harnesses; dimensions of 113.5 × 62 × 159 cm; 2-year warranty according to the product information.

Suitable for: Creative children’s activities

Interactive Princess Castle Playset with Music & Lights

Why it suits this profile: For children aged 3 and over who enjoy making up stories with a princess, prince and carriage.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The age limit and risk of small parts are stated in the product information. Keep the toy out of reach of children under 3.

Key benefit & highlights

Princess, prince and carriage included; seven-colour lighting; twelve background melodies; three AG13 batteries included according to the description.

Frequently asked questions about children’s clothing and toys

Which baby clothing size should I choose?

Use the child’s height as your starting point and compare it with the size in centimetres. An age indication is useful, but children do not all grow at the same rate. Also check the fit and, if in doubt, choose a size that allows enough room for movement.

What should I look for in toys for children aged 3 and over?

Check the minimum age, warnings about small parts, the number of pieces and any batteries. With dinosaur toys and dressing-up toys, it is particularly important to ensure that the parts are not suitable for younger children if there is a choking risk. When choosing a doctor’s kit or another role-play set, consider how small accessories will be stored.

How long does children’s clothing last?

How long it lasts depends on the fit, washing instructions, material and how intensively the garment is worn. Cotton with elastane can be practical for everyday movement, but always follow the care label. For outdoor play, children’s sandals or a garment with extra protection may wear out more quickly than clothing worn indoors. Regularly check the seams, fastenings and soles before using the item again.